Meningitis Symptoms: Recognizing Warning Signs & Seeking Immediate Care

Meningitis is an inflamation of the covering of the brain due to a viral, bacteria or fungi infection. It's can be lethal within hours - especially in kids. Familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms, especially if you have a child, and seek treatment as soon as possible if you suspect infection.

Things You'll Need

• Thermometers

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Instructions

• 1

  Know that sudden fever, especially over 100 degrees F, with or without a preceeding illness, is cause for concern. If you or your child is ill with an earache, cold, flu or pneumonia, check for fever twice a day.

• 2

  Realize that a severe headache, especially one that's aggravated by shaking the head, is an outstanding symptom of meningitis.

• 3

  Evaluate neuromuscular status. A stiff neck, a severe pain in the neck, back pain, seizure or one-sided weakness are all possible symptoms of meningitis.

• 4

  Look closely for a rash. Two-thirds of patients with meningitis have one. Spots can be small and red or large and bruise-like.

• 5

  Evaluate your eyesight. If you're experiencing photophobia, that is, looking at light causes you pain or prompts you to look away, you may have meningitis.

• 6

  Watch for vomiting, another symptom of meningitis.

• 7

  Evaluate your level of fatigue. Sometimes malaise and lethargy is a warning symptom of meningitis.

• 8

  Check your infant's fontanelle, or soft spot. If it's bulging or tight, call your pediatrician immediately.

• 9

  Listen to your child's cry. If it's high-pitched and shrill, this may be a symptom of meningitis.